Biodiversity and Environmental Factors Structuring Diatom Assemblages of Mineral Saline Springs in the French Massif Central

Springs are abundant and present worldwide among the most threatened ecosystems on Earth. The main aim of this study was to evaluate biodiversity seventy-nine (79) mineral saline springs situated in French Massif Central, focusing species richness estimated also diatom community composition. influence physical chemical factors both communities analyzed order have a better knowledge ecological preferences identify typical springs. Since December 2014, an on-going inventory has been progress. For each spring, characteristics were measured, benthic diatoms sampled. lowest presenting man-made construction around emergence. In other springs, highest associated with lithium, sodium, total dissolved solid concentrations, conductivity. Mineralization some ions (bromine, calcium, chloride, fluoride, potassium, sodium) found be critical drivers Some specific abiotic conditions, such as Navicula sanctamargaritae, which potassium concentration. These could appear bio-indicators these conditions.